Adi Tulia Nacola exemplifies the rising entrepreneurial spirit among young iTaukei women, venturing confidently into diverse fields. With a history of success in furniture and boat building, as well as authoring three novels, Nacola now ventures into film production with her debut short film, “Bubu Belo.”
“Bubu Belo,” a 25-minute film produced in the iTaukei language, centers on the lives of two characters, Bubu and Tamara, as they navigate life in a small wooden cottage by the sea in Verevere Village, Ra—Nacola’s home province. In the film, Bubu teaches Tamara vital survival skills, such as fishing and agriculture, aiming to instill a deep respect for the land and a sense of independence. However, their lives take a turn with the unexpected arrival of a figure from their past, forcing Bubu to confront a challenging decision related to their way of life.
The narrative addresses the tension between traditional land reliance and the allure of urban opportunities, a dilemma faced by many indigenous people over the years. Nacola emphasizes, “Opportunities might be in the big cities of the world, but there is also a place for opportunities in the village and remaining connected to one’s own land.”
As a proponent of storytelling as a means of preserving traditional knowledge, Nacola’s film aims to bridge the generational gap, fostering connections between elders and younger individuals—especially those grappling with their cultural identity. “Bubu Belo” serves as a canvas for teaching respect for one another and the land through engaging narratives.
The premiere of this pioneering iTaukei language film will take place at Film Fiji in Suva next week, followed by screenings in several Ra villages, fostering an appreciation for identity and community roots.
Event details:
– Premiere of “Bubu Belo” by Adi Tulia Nacola
– Location: Film Fiji, Civic House, Suva
– Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025
This initiative is not just about film; it’s a celebration of culture, identity, and the importance of storytelling in nurturing future generations.
Overall, Adi Tulia Nacola’s work can inspire hope as it highlights the possibilities that balance modernization with cultural heritage, allowing communities to carry forward their traditions while embracing new opportunities.
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